As someone who has personally experienced the negative effects of melanoma, I am passionate about protecting my skin against further damage from the sun. While applying sunscreen, wearing a sun hat, and limiting sun exposure during peak UV hours are well-known preventative measures, have you ever considered wearing UPF clothing? In this article, I will share the best sun protective clothing brands for women and explain why you should consider UPF clothing as a vital part of your sun protection routine.
What is UPF Clothing?
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing is designed to protect your skin against sun damage. It measures the amount of UVB and UVA rays that can reach your skin through a piece of clothing, similar to the way SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is measured for sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing that has a UPF of at least 30, with UPF 50+ clothing rated as excellent. It’s important to note that a simple white t-shirt has a UPF of only around 7, which is why investing in UPF clothing is crucial for skin protection.
Why Should You Wear Sun Protective Clothing?
While applying sunscreen daily is crucial, it can be challenging to remember to reapply it every 90 minutes. Wearing sun protective clothing is an effective alternative as unlike SPF, you don’t have to reapply it. A piece of clothing with a UPF rating of 50+ can block around 98% of the UVA and UVB rays while you have it on, providing long-lasting sun protection. It’s never too late to start protecting your skin, and UPF clothing is an excellent way to do so.
Best UPF Clothing Brands
While sun protective clothing is beneficial, it’s essential to find options that are stylish, comfortable and easy to wear. Coolibar offers a wide selection of UPF clothing that is perfect for everyday wear. Some other brands, such as Cabana Life, Sailor-Sailor, and Lilly Pulitzer, have more resort wear options with bright, colorful patterns. There are also plenty of options that are subtle and more appropriate for daily wear.
My Favorite Sun Protective Clothing Pieces
While short sleeve UPF clothing options are a great start, those with a history of skin cancer or those who are more vigilant about skin protection should consider adding a UPF jacket or wrap to their collection. It’s also important to remember to protect uncovered parts of the body and the backs of the hands with sunscreen and a sun hat. Some of my favorite UPF clothing pieces include:
1. Athleta Pacifica Jacket – A versatile and light jacket perfect for casual wear.
2. Sun Protective Wrap – A versatile wrap that can be worn in various situations, including as a cover-up over a swimsuit.
3. Cabana Life Dress and Top – Functional and fashionable options suitable for everyday wear and days out on the golf course.
4. Chico’s Bungee Crops – Stylish cropped pants that are perfect for running errands or outdoor strolls.
5. Long Sleeve UPF Button Down – A classic white button-down that is perfect for any occasion.
6. Sailor-Sailor Outfits – Resort-wear options with UPF 50+ protection that features great prints and patterns.
7. UPF 50+ Popover – A versatile and functional popover that works well in cooler months.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating UPF clothing into your sun protection routine is a wise choice. While sunscreen is an essential part of sun protection, it’s not always practical to reapply frequently. By investing in UPF clothing from reputable brands, you can protect your skin against sun damage while looking stylish and comfortable. Remember to protect uncovered areas of skin with sunscreen, and wear a sun hat for maximum protection.
